Paris Qualles
Screenwriter
Emmy-winning screenwriter Paris Qualles uses his pen to tell powerful stories that bring history to life and inspire change
Paris Qualles’ television movies include the acclaimed The Tuskegee Airmen, which won an Emmy in 1995, and The Color of Friendship, which in 2000 won an Emmy for Outstanding Children’s Program; the Writers Guild Award for best children’s script; and a Humanitas Prize, which honors writers whose work enlightens and enriches. His other movies include Silent Witness, The Inkwell, The Ditchdigger’s Daughters, and A House Divided. Qualles has been active in the Rutgers community since his days as a student. While at Rutgers College, he cofounded the Paul Robeson Ensemble for student actors. His diverse writing career has included scripts and staff writing positions for China Beach, Law & Order, Quantum Leap, MANTIS, Equal Justice, The Heights, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, and The Cape. In February 2002, CBS aired his award-winning film on the life of Rosa Parks. Also receiving high acclaim was his movie Profoundly Normal, starring Kirstie Alley, which aired on CBS in February 2003. Other projects include the 2008 television adaptation of A Raisin in the Sun, starring John Stamos and Sean “Diddy” Combs.